Ireland: Tánaiste’s declaration adds a new dynamic to abortion debate

Tánaiste’s declaration adds a new dynamic to abortion debate
Analysis: Simon Coveney’s intervention has focused attention on the unborn

Feb 2, 2018
Pat Leahy

Simon Coveney’s declaration that he is in favour of repeal of the Eighth Amendment but against abortion on request up to 12 weeks is a significant intervention in the referendum debate.

While the Tánaiste spoke forcefully on and will campaign for repeal of the constitutional ban on abortion, his indication that he would seek to amend the proposed legislation which would follow the referendum – if it is passed – caught TDs by surprise and worried some pro-repeal ministers. It annoyed some of them, too.